Mohammed receives Microsoft CEO, discusses smart government services

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, received the CEO of Microsoft Corporation Satya Nadella on Monday at the Executive Office.His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Nadella discussed UAE’s plans and projects in the field of smart government services.Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, attended the meeting.During the meeting, Sheikh Mohammed expressed his appreciation for Microsoft’s role in the global information and communication technology sector. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the long-standing cooperation between the UAE and major technology developers and providers, including Microsoft.The meeting also discussed UAE’s plans to utilise the latest and most efficient technology solutions in the government sector to enhance services and improve government performance with the aim of furthering the UAE’s growth and progress and achieving national development objectives.

The meeting also discussed the key objectives of the UAE’s National Innovation Strategy that was launched in 2014 following directives from President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to institutionalise and promote a culture of innovation and creativity.

Furthermore, the meeting discussed Dubai’s innovation strategy, developed in line with the National Innovation Strategy, which includes 20 initiatives aimed at further enhancing Dubai’s profile as one of the world’s most innovative cities.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella praised the UAE’s approach towards development and the leadership’s vision to implement the latest technology and communication solutions. Nadella thanked the UAE’s leadership for providing a supportive environment for businesses and foreign investments.

He said the cooperation between Dubai and Microsoft goes back 15 years to the beginnings of Dubai Internet City, home of Microsoft’s regional office. Nadella affirmed Microsoft’s keenness to explore new opportunities that will increase cooperation in the coming years.